ARRIVING IN 2008 - THE CHANGI INTERNATIONAL AIRSHOW

Aircraft enthusiasts do not need to fret. While next year s Asian Aerospace (AA) will be the last airshow to be held at the eastern fringe of Changi Airport, come 2008, a new show will take its place, at a new site in Changi North.

Changi International Airshow & Events Pte Ltd, a joint venture between the Defence Science & Technology Agency (DSTA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), will organise the Changi International Airshow which is scheduled for Feb 2008.

While no concrete plans can be revealed now, according to the Economic Development Board (EDB), Changi International Airshow & Events Pte Ltd will invest in and construct a new venue to host a world-class airshow.

Mr Manohar Khiatani, EDB s Director of Logistics and Transport, said his agency recognises the value of a world-class airshow, and remains committed to hosting such a show in Singapore for the long term.

The current site near Changi Village will be redeveloped for airport expansion after Asian Aerospace 2006.

Since its inception in 1981, the biennial airshow has been held in Singapore for 12 times, and has emerged as one of the world s largest airshow.